Optimizing Education: The Crucial Role of Effective Resource Allocation Systems in K-12 Education

As a district leader, you know that the allocation of resources is critical for improving student outcomes and the equity of educational outcomes. R9CC has been working with the Illinois State Board of Education to develop the state’s process for conducting “resource allocation reviews,” a requirement under ESSA whereby states facilitate reviews with districts that have substantial numbers of schools identified as needing supports and improvement.

During this work, a key question that came up was “What does good resource allocation within districts look like?” To address this question, and to serve as a guidepost for the resource allocation reviews, we developed a brief guide to the Properties of Effective Resource Allocation Systems. By paying attention to these four priority areas, you as a school/district will be able to use resources more intentionally, effectively, and equitably.